Bus Accident in Los Angeles: Who’s Responsible?

If a school bus accident happens in Los Angeles, you can hold the responsible parties, such as the bus driver, operator, or other entities, liable for your damages. You must gather evidence that shows who caused the accident and how severe your damages are.

In this article, you’ll learn how to determine liability in Los Angeles bus accidents and how to protect your rights after one occurs.

How Often Do Bus Accidents Occur?

Sadly, bus accidents frequently occur in California and throughout the United States. According to a 2025 study, there were 13,452 reported bus accidents in 2024, with 171 of those crashes resulting in at least one fatality.

Tragically, 203 people lost their lives in bus accidents that year, and about 16% of these deaths involved individuals who were passengers inside the bus at the time of the crash.

Moreover, bus accidents also caused widespread injuries. That year, 12,532 people sustained injuries in bus-related incidents. In fact, approximately 51% of all bus accidents resulted in injuries, with 6,860 of those crashes causing harm to at least one person.

California, in particular, saw a concerning number of these incidents. It ranked fifth in the nation for bus accidents, with 802 crashes, 12 of which were fatal, and 390 leading to injuries.

Can I File a Personal Injury Claim After a Bus Accident in Los Angeles, CA?

Yes. In Los Angeles, when a bus accident occurs, the party responsible for causing the crash, whether it’s the bus driver, another motorist, or even a third party, is typically the one whose insurance must cover the resulting damages and injuries. However, obtaining the compensation you deserve isn’t always straightforward.

To have a valid claim for compensation after a bus accident, certain truths must be clear:

Reckless or negligent behavior — The bus driver was negligent, such as by being distracted, speeding, or simply not paying attention, or perhaps another driver on the road acted carelessly. Someone’s poor choices must have played a direct role in what happened.
Direct cause of the accident — That reckless behavior must have directly led to the crash and the harm you suffered.
Real, measurable losses — You’ve been left with more than just a frightening memory. Medical bills, lost income, physical pain, and emotional distress – these are the very real burdens you now carry.

Whether it’s a city bus, school bus, or private charter, you’re entitled to pursue compensation if negligence caused your bus accident in Los Angeles.

Are There California Bus Laws I Should Know Before Filing a Case?

California has implemented several laws to ensure the safety of all road users, particularly passengers, when it comes to bus operations. These regulations not only aim to protect them but also hold responsible parties accountable in the event of a bus-related accident. Key laws include:

California Civil Code § 2100

Bus drivers are held to a high standard of care, especially when transporting passengers.

Under California Civil Code § 2100, individuals or organizations providing transportation services for compensation must exercise the utmost caution and diligence to ensure passenger safety. This entails not only supplying the necessary resources but also employing sufficient skill and expertise to fulfill their duty of care.

California Vehicle Code § 21702

The California Vehicle Code § 21702 enforces strict regulations on driving hours for both bus and truck operators to prevent fatigue-related accidents. According to this statute, bus drivers must adhere to the following limitations:

No more than 10 consecutive hours of driving in a single day.
No more than 10 hours of driving within any 15-hour period.
Drivers must take at least 8 hours off-duty before exceeding the daily 10-hour limit.

By mandating these safety measures, California aims to reduce risks and prioritize the well-being of passengers and other road users.

Who Is Liable for My Injuries After a Bus Accident in Los Angeles?

While securing a settlement from a bus accident is possible if you sustain injuries from one, you must know whom to file the claim against to have a valid case.

Are Bus Drivers Automatically At Fault for a Crash?

No, bus drivers are not automatically at fault in a crash. Liability depends on the specific details of the accident, just like with any other driver.

In California, negligence determines fault. To hold a bus driver accountable, you must prove that they acted carelessly or failed to uphold their duty of care on the road.

A bus driver may be at fault if they:

Were distracted or texting while driving
Ran a red light or stop sign
Drove too fast for conditions or exceeded speed limits
Failed to maintain proper control of the bus
Neglected traffic laws
Drove negligently

However, not every crash is the bus driver’s fault. Other factors, such as other drivers, pedestrians, defective vehicle parts, or poor road conditions, can also contribute to the accident. In some cases, multiple parties may share liability, including the bus driver, another motorist, or even a government entity responsible for road maintenance.

Can I Hold the Bus Company Liable for My Damages?

Yes, in many cases, you can hold the bus company liable for your damages, especially if their negligence contributed to the accident.

In California, companies that operate public or private buses have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of passengers and others on the road. When they fail in that duty, they can be held financially responsible.

Here are some situations where a bus company may be liable:

Negligent Hiring or Training

If a company hires a driver with a poor safety record or fails to properly train them, it may be held liable.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Bus companies must regularly inspect and maintain their fleet. If worn brakes or a tire blowout caused the crash, the company could be responsible.

Overworked Drivers

Companies that pressure drivers to skip rest breaks or exceed legal driving hours can be liable for fatigue-related accidents.

Violation of Safety Regulations

Buses must adhere to strict federal and state safety regulations. Any violation could be evidence of negligence.

In legal terms, this is known as vicarious liability, which means that employers can be accountable for their employees’ actions while they are performing job duties. That means that if a bus driver causes an accident while on the job, the bus company may also be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages.

Despite having the right to file against bus companies or operators, going against these entities can be complex, especially when public agencies are involved. However, an experienced bus accident lawyer in Los Angeles can help investigate what went wrong, gather the necessary evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Holding Government-Owned Buses Accountable

If you were in a bus accident involving a negligent city or government-owned vehicle, you can hold the government responsible. Whether it’s a local transit authority or a school district operating the bus, their duty to ensure your safety is paramount.

That said, suing the government isn’t like suing a private individual or company. Time is critical. According to the California Tort Claims Act, you must file a formal claim within six months of the accident, and any delays or missed steps could jeopardize your case.

What Happens After I Sue the Government Agency?

Once you file your claim, the government agency has 45 days to respond. During this time, they may:

Accept the claim, reject it, or propose a settlement as a compromise.
Request additional information if the claim is deemed incomplete. You will follow a specific timeframe for amending and resubmitting it.
Return the claim when it fails to meet the 6-month statute of limitations.

If the agency does not respond within 45 days, the court automatically rejects the claim.

Should your claim be rejected, you have 6 months to petition the court to file a lawsuit. However, if the rejection occurs because the agency failed to respond, you may file a petition within 2 years. Once the court approves your petition, you will have 30 days to formally file your lawsuit.

This is why it’s essential to work with a Los Angeles bus accident lawyer experienced in handling government liability. A legal team is familiar with the procedures and deadlines inside and out. They ensure your claim progresses smoothly without errors or delays.

Understanding Common Carrier Rules

When it comes to public transportation, including buses, companies are bound by what’s called “common carrier standards.” This means they have a higher standard of care due to their responsibility for ensuring passenger safety.

If an accident occurs because a bus driver was inattentive, a bus company failed to maintain its vehicle, or it didn’t properly train its drivers, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Whether it’s a bus, taxi, train, or school bus, we’ll hold the liable parties accountable for their negligence.

Filing Against a Private or Charter Bus

Private and charter buses, known as “for-hire passenger carriers,” are strictly regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission. The CPUC enforces safety standards and state regulations to ensure the protection of passengers. So, when someone breaks these rules, it’s a sign of negligence by the bus company or operator.

Liability in these cases can be complex. For instance, if a driver is poorly trained or fatigued, the bus company has failed to ensure proper staffing. On the other hand, the operator or maintenance provider is at fault if the accident stems from maintenance issues, such as worn-out parts or skipped inspections. In the event of equipment failure, the manufacturer or parts supplier may be liable. And in many cases, multiple parties share the blame.

These situations demand action and expertise. A skilled Los Angeles bus accident lawyer will investigate the details, examine every safety violation, and hold negligent parties accountable. They’ll gather critical evidence, stand up to insurance companies, and fight to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other related expenses.

Bus accidents can leave victims facing serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial strain. You don’t have to face this alone. Legal support can make all the difference, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and providing you with the resources to rebuild and move forward confidently.

Can I Hold Other Parties Negligent for the Bus Accident?

Sometimes, neither the school bus driver nor the school is at fault for a crash. In certain situations, other entities may bear responsibility for the accident.

For example, suppose another driver acts negligently, such as speeding, driving under the influence, or running a red light, and collides with the school bus. In that case, they should be held accountable for the damages.

Additionally, poor road conditions, such as potholes or debris left unaddressed by local authorities, could contribute to the accident, making a government agency or municipality liable.

Similarly, if the accident results from a mechanical failure due to defective parts or improper maintenance, the manufacturer or maintenance provider may also be at fault. Identifying the responsible party in such cases is crucial for ensuring justice and providing proper compensation to those who have been affected.

What Happens If I Am Partially At Fault?

In California, the pure comparative fault system allows you to still recover damages even if you share some responsibility for an accident.

In such cases, your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 30% at fault, you’re still entitled to 70% of your total damages.

Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to shift more blame onto you to reduce their payout; this is a common tactic. That’s where we step in. As experienced Los Angeles bus accident attorneys, we know how to effectively advocate for and protect your rights. We’ll fight to ensure you’re not unfairly blamed or robbed of the settlement you deserve. Our goal? To hold the right parties accountable and secure the maximum compensation for you.

How to Prove Negligence After a Bus Accident

To win a personal injury claim, you must show that someone’s negligence directly caused your injuries. Key forms of evidence include:

Police reports detailing the cause of the crash
Witness statements that confirm what happened
Video footage from traffic, business, or onboard cameras
Maintenance logs showing whether safety checks were skipped
Driver records indicating prior violations, fatigue, or policy breaches
Telematics/ECM data (speed, braking, hours of service) from the bus
Scene evidence (photos, skid marks, debris patterns, road hazards)
Medical records linking the collision to your injuries and treatment

A lawyer can act quickly to send preservation letters, secure videos, and collect the documents and data needed to prove fault before it’s lost or destroyed.

What to Do Immediately After a Bus Accident

Seek medical care right away, even for symptoms that seem minor.
Call the police and make a report; ask how to obtain a copy.
Document the scene with photos or video of vehicles, the bus number, license plates, injuries, weather, and road conditions.
Get witness names and contact information.
Keep all records, such as medical bills, work notes, prescriptions, and repair estimates.
Do not give a recorded statement or sign anything from insurers without legal advice.
Contact a Los Angeles bus accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and meet deadlines (especially if a government entity is involved).

Damages You Deserve After a Bus Accident in Los Angeles, CA

In a bus accident, injuries are just the beginning. You may face skyrocketing medical bills, lost income, emotional trauma, and lasting changes to your daily life. California law is clear: if you’re a victim, you have the right to full compensation for your losses.

Here’s the damages you’re entitled to:

Medical Expenses

Bus accident injuries can be devastating, such as broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, or internal damage. Your compensation should cover:

Emergency care (ambulances, ER visits)
Surgeries, hospital stays, and rehab
Physical therapy and counseling
Medical devices like wheelchairs or braces
Prescription medications
Future medical costs for long-term recovery or disability

Lost Wages and Future Income

Recovering from a bus accident often means missed work, and in severe cases, a permanent impact on your earning ability. You can claim:

Wages you lost during your recovery
Future income if your ability to work is reduced or gone
Loss of benefits, bonuses, and career opportunities

Pain and Suffering

Not all damage is physical. California recognizes your right to compensation for the emotional and mental toll a bus accident can take:

Chronic pain and physical limitations
Emotional distress, like anxiety, depression, or PTSD
Loss of enjoyment in life by missing out on the activities that once brought you joy

Property Damage

If the crash results in a damaged car or personal belongings, you have the right to recover repair or replacement costs. This includes:

Vehicle damage
Destroyed items like phones, laptops, or car seats

Punitive Damages

In cases of extreme negligence, like a driver under the influence or a bus company ignoring safety violations, California courts may award punitive damages. These aren’t just about compensation; they serve as a powerful deterrent against reckless behavior.

You deserve every dollar of compensation the law allows after being in an accident. Don’t settle for less.

What Happens If the Bus Accident Results in Wrongful Death?

If you’ve lost a loved one in a bus accident, no amount of money can replace their absence. However, the law allows families to seek justice and alleviate the financial burden. You have the right to file a wrongful death claim to pursue compensation for:

Funeral and burial costs
Medical expenses incurred before passing
Loss of the financial support your loved one would have provided
Loss of income and benefits
Loss of love, companionship, guidance, and care
Emotional pain and suffering
Loss of inheritance or future financial security

During this difficult time, a bus accident lawyer in Los Angeles, CA, can manage the legal aspects of your case, from liability to court battles (if necessary), to protect your rights while you focus on recovering.

Do I Need to Go to Trial for a Bus Accident?

Most bus accident claims in California end in settlements, not trials. Settlements are often the faster, more practical solution. Insurance companies and legal teams know that trials come with significant time, cost, and risk, and they’d rather avoid them.

Your case is more likely to settle if:

The facts leave no doubt (e.g., the bus driver was clearly at fault).
The bus company or insurer accepts responsibility.
Your damages are well-documented.
Both parties are prepared to negotiate in good faith.

An experienced bus accident attorney will build a strong claim and present undeniable evidence, putting pressure on the bus company or insurer to offer fair compensation.

However, sometimes a trial is the only way to obtain justice. A trial may be necessary if:

The bus company refuses to take accountability or shifts blame to you or another party.
The insurer’s settlement offer is inadequate and doesn’t cover your losses.
There are disputes over the severity of your injuries or long-term medical needs.
Punitive damages are necessary to hold the company accountable for reckless or intentional misconduct, such as knowingly operating buses that are unsafe.

In these cases, a skilled lawyer will fight relentlessly on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way. They’ll stand by your side, build a compelling case, and advocate for the compensation and justice you deserve.

You don’t always need a trial to secure compensation after a bus accident. However, a strong advocate in your corner can significantly increase your chances of winning a case. With the right attorney, you can confidently pursue a fair settlement or take the fight to court if necessary.

Steps to Take After a Bus Accident in Los Angeles

Suing private companies or individuals is straightforward compared to legal actions against the government. But at The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker, we thrive on championing such complexities. Here’s what you need to know:

If negligence caused your bus accident, you could potentially sue the city, county, or state operating the vehicle.
Filing a government claim requires you to act fast, often within six months of the incident.
You’ll have additional time to file a personal injury lawsuit if the court denies the claim (up to two years post-accident).

We don’t just handle these details for you; we make sure you’re never left guessing. Our team guides you through the process step by step.

Why Choose Us?

With decades of experience and a fierce commitment to justice, The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker has recovered over $2 billion in compensation for our clients. We’re relentless, dependable, and fully dedicated to fighting for YOU.

If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a bus accident in Los Angeles, don’t wait. Call us at 800-333-0000 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We’ll determine who’s accountable and build a case that delivers results.

When it comes to your rights, we never settle for less than what’s fair.

Don’t settle too soon — a car accident lawyer can review your case free of charge before you decide.

What Our Clients Say About Us

While many personal injury attorneys can handle your case and build a legal defense, our dedication to advocating diligently on your behalf distinguishes us. We go above and beyond to ensure that our Los Angeles bus lawyers are fully prepared to create a strong claim, as proven by our pleased prior clients.

“My husband and I are really happy with the results of our case; they solved it very, very fast! We will refer our friends to a lawyer who takes cases seriously. And they also speak Spanish.” – Lucia R.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bus Accident Claims

Need to learn more about accident claims? We want to help you! Here are common questions asked by injured accident victims, which may clarify various aspects of your case.

References

California Civil Code § 2100. (n.d.). California Legislative Information. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&sectionNum=2100.

California Vehicle Code § 21702. (n.d.). California Legislative Information. https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH&sectionNum=21702

comparative negligence | Wex | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute. (n.d.). Law.Cornell.Edu. Retrieved June 17, 2025, from https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/comparative_negligence

Fretwell, K. (2025, February 4). Bus Accident Statistics – 2025 Edition. TruckInfo.net. Retrieved June 17, 2025, from https://www.truckinfo.net/research/bus-accident-statistics

PROCEDURAL ISSUES OF THE TORT CLAIMS ACT. (n.d.). cacities.org. https://www.cacities.org/UploadedFiles/LeagueInternet/72/724cf4ef-006c-4166-97c5-6e8ecb0e548c.pdf